Travis County approves 100% property tax exemption for eligible child care providers

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) -- Travis County commissioners unanimously approved a 100% property tax exemption for qualifying child care providers, starting in the 2024 tax year.

This comes after Texas voters last year approved Proposition 2, a constitutional amendment allowing municipalities and counties to provide a property tax exemption for qualifying child care centers.  

It also comes ahead of when federal relief funding for child care providers is set to expire later this year. That funding allowed childcare centers to stay open and retain staff during the pandemic, a release from Travis County Judge Andy Brown's office said.

“Today marks a historic milestone in providing relief for working families as Travis County faces the highest child care costs in the state of Texas,” Brown said. “This action supports safer, more stable, and more resilient families by expanding access to high-quality, affordable child care. I’m proud to join my colleagues in passing this resolution and providing financial relief to child care providers in Travis County.” 

Property owners must submit an application (Form 50-844) to the Travis Central Appraisal District by April 30 to see if they qualify for the exemption. Property owners can apply online, submit via email at CSInfo@tcadcentral.org or send their application via mail to P.O. Box 149012; Austin, TX 78714-9012.

Applicants can contact the Travis Central Appraisal District with questions about eligibility and tax exemption requirements by calling (512) 834-9317 or by visiting its website.